Tag Archives: prado

Another amazing painting, this is a Spanish historical painting depicting the execution of the liberal field marshal José María Torrijos (1791-1831) by absolutist troops. “…commissioned in 1886 directly by the liberal government of Praxedes Mateo Sagasta (1825-1903) during the regency of Queen María Cristina of Austria (1806-1878), as an example of the defense of freedom for future generations.”

The scene draws you in first by it’s seaside setting, but quickly alerts one to the danger by its grey atmosphere. The presence of blindfolds rules out the impression of shipwreck or disaster at sea. The padre administering last rights, the soldiers in the background, and the bound hands among the crowd deliver the message before the title finally imforms one of the grave scenario, despite its uplifting message and the martyrdom of freedom. These sensations and the overall color palette make this one of my favorite paintings.

More Info: Museo Nacional Del PradoArtist: Gisbert Pérez, AntonioTitle: The Execution by Firing Squad of Torrijos and his Companions on the Beach at MálagaDate: 1888Medium: Oil on CanvasLocation: Museo Del Prado, Madrid